The oil and gas industries are booming in Texas right now. As the country moves away from coal, oil and gas have remained steady choices for the country’s energy needs. With oil prices likely to go up in the near future, this could lead to a lot of positives for the state of Texas and for the country, but it could also have some negative consequences for professional arborists. Among those would be an increase in oil and gas property disputes. As natural gas, in particular, becomes America’s go-to energy source, the search for new fields to explore will lead to a rise in prices. As prices rise, the amount due to the initial landowners is likely to rise as well. This could lead to more land being bought up early for speculation or for massive bidding wars when gas or oil is discovered. With so much money on the table, and with a sense that the economy, though strong, is fragile, it’s likely more people will try to contest the rights of ownership for different pieces of land. Whether this contesting is done by individuals or by corporations, it’s impossible to know, but the likelihood of disputes is high regardless of who is involved. While this is a small concern compared to the overall positive energy situation for Texas, it’s still worth the state taking seriously. A rise in lawsuits could clog up the courts while there’s always the possibility of the situation turning violent should the courts be unable to properly resolve issues in a timely manner. Texas remains the center of the American energy industry. With a new oil boom in West Texas and so much natural gas that there’s now a glut of it, leading to the industry capping some wells, everything is looking quite positive going forward over the short term. However, as the glut subsides and as the oil tries up in the known areas in West Texas, there could be increased demand for land to explore. Making a point of focusing on property rights now and dealing with disputes before more speculation takes place in the coming years. Encouraging disputers to come forward early can help avoid more serious issues later. Passing new legislation to help negotiate property disputes more easily might also help alleviate the issue. Texas should be ecstatic with its natural gas fortunes, as well as the continuing strength of oil. With both energy sources remaining (and likely to remain) the main means of powering the country for a long time to come, there are few negatives ahead for the state. One of those few negatives, though, is property disputes. Taking the right steps now will help keep the industry going without a blip going forward.

It’s a nightmare scenario that too many workers actually have to face. They’ve been injured at work, they need time off to recover and they need someone to cover the medical bills. They think they’re covered by workers’ compensation only to find out…they’ve been rejected.

It’s a desperate situation to be in when someone is already injured and has to deal with the stress and fears that come from uncertainty over their finances.

What are they supposed to do?

First things first, it’s probably time to call a lawyer. If it’s possible to afford one, a lawyer is the best bet to get out of this situation. Think of the money that will be gained from getting your claim approved. It’s far more than the cost of a lawyer.

Whether you go with a lawyer or not, don’t panic if you are rejected. There are still a few things you can do to end up getting compensated the way you deserve to be.

I found some excellent tips on the Robert Wilson & Associates site, and I recommend even after those tips are pointed out here, that you do some research on legal sites, again, whether you decide to use a lawyer or not.

So, the lawyers of Robert Wilson say that the three things you need to do after you receive a rejection are:

Evaluate your claim and determine why it was denied

This is the toughest step, especially if you try to do it without a lawyer. What you can do is go over the whole application from top to bottom and see where there could be any errors. Without more guidance, it’s a matter of reworking the whole application to make sure everything is as thorough as possible and there are no inconsistencies. Again, this is much more easily done with a lawyer.

Collect missing or incomplete information

Once mistakes or missing information has been found, your job is to fix those issues. Whether it’s the need to provide more evidence from a doctor or more evidence from those who witnessed the accident, be sure to put everything down. The more thorough you are, the better chance you have of getting accepted the second time around. It’s better to provide too much evidence than not enough. And remember, everything must be completely consistent.

Appeal

Submit your new application for appeal.

Hopefully, with a more thorough and careful effort on the appeal, you will get approved. I would like to stress, though, that getting a lawyer will significantly raise your odds, and since you are already in the appeal process, it’s really best to avoid taking risks.

Look around your area for lawyers and find out who is most affordable while still being considered reliable. The amount you’d pay would be a small fraction of what would come in lost wages and covered medical expenses.

Regardless, I wish you luck if you end up in this position. No one should have to suffer and stress over these issues if they were injured at work. I hope everyone reading this gets covered.

In today’s age, there are many reasons for car accidents. With a lot of efforts placed on the awareness and education of driving under the influence, which is still a huge problem, this is not the biggest problem. The number one cause of car accidents is distracted driving. The term “distracted driving” is a broad term that incorporates driving while doing just about anything on a cell phone or mobile device. In a recent study from Cambridge Mobile Telematics, distracted driving was shown to be the leading cause of car crashes.

According to the study, out of all the recorded drives that ended in a crash, 52% of those trips were due to distracted driving. These distractions are also not just quick glances at the drivers’ cell phones; the average distraction lasts 135 seconds. Not to mention that while these long distractions are taking place, 29% of the distracted drivers were exceeding 56 miles per hour. Driving at these speeds while distracted for on average 135 seconds, is clearly a recipe for disaster.

Since 2015, the fatalities on the road rose by 14%, which is exponential compared to previous years, and directly correlated to the increase in popularity in smartphones. Irony also plays a role in this dramatic increase, because smartphones are also the solution to this problem. Smartphones are what allow this data to be tracked, and the sending out of information regarding awareness and education to take place so easily. Because the solution is part of the problem and progress seems obsolete at the moment, it is important to know what your next steps are if you or someone you know gets in a car accident.

According to Williams Kherkher and their list of frequently asked questions, the most common question a client asks is, “I was hurt in a serious crash. What do I do?” This confusion is highly likely when it comes someone who has just been in a car crash. Instead of expecting every civilian to understand and memorize the laws involved in the crash and what you can get from it, there are experienced lawyers who can answer all your questions. Insurance companies will offer their clients settlements to try to avoid a lawsuit, and only professional lawyers will have the knowledge and experience to make an informed decision on whether or not to settle.

There are many things to determine after a car accident takes place. First being who is at fault, and from there the lawyer can determine what compensation you deserve. You need to find a lawyer you can trust. Therefore you can fully put your faith in them that you are truly being treated fairly by the court of law. It is very common for people to settle for less than they deserve because they did not seek proper legal assistance. Don’t let this happen to you or a loved one, and get the proper legal care you need.

In today’s world, economic potential is the guiding force in all business decisions. Our society operates on money that is generated by trade and providing services. Corporate interests have abused their power resulting in the inconsistencies of their business practices. Many companies have very skilled lawyers who often compose dense legal documents that protect their interests more than the benefit of the client. Loopholes and other hidden agendas in legal documents can create mass confusion and in many cases can potentially ruin a new business before it begins to thrive.

The application of a legal contract in the business world is widespread. At every level of employment, citizens may be asked to sign a contract that binds them to terms described in the document. Many employers use contracts to release liability from the company for any injuries or other circumstances that come about from violation. These materials can come in many forms and have a range of applications in the business sector, private sector, and education sector. Agreeing to waive rights to wages or services is one of the main ways that companies can mistreat their employees. The documents often contain dense formulations of language to disguise their intent. Language is peculiar in that there are multiple modes of wording sentences that would leave the reader confused or unaware of their implications. As it pertains to business start-ups or entrepreneurs, these legal documents can cripple the business plans made on behalf of these parties. Because many people in the country depend on the assistance of financial institutions or other lending agencies, it is imperative that they remain cautious and have competent assistance to protect themselves and their businesses.

The United States Department of Labor is a government agency that is responsible for implementing occupational safety standards, wage and hours standards, and providing the public with statistics that give insight into the labor sector in the country. In 2008 the DOL released that they were able to recover more than $1.4 billion of back wages for employees across the nation. These wages were caught up in litigation that

These wages were caught up in litigation that were sometimes brought on by misleading contracts. Damages to the financial security of citizens through the unfair procedures taken by their directing authority cannot continue to happen. This inequality is the result of systematic issues that are responsible for the growing wage gap between populations. Business owners, regardless of previous expertise in the market, should always be cautious when entering into the conditions of a legally binding agreement. As with any decision they make on behalf of their livelihood their primary concern should be self-preservation.

It is clear that our country’s economy will continue to grow as long as our institutions allow businesses of all varieties to thrive. The deceptive practices that are utilized by fraudulent businessmen are one of the most dangerous plagues to the future success of the U.S. economy, and workers can take action by turning to attorneys experienced in business law to make sure that they are protected against deceitful or dishonest contracts.

The United States is the world’s largest consumer of cocaine, a powerful and highly addictive stimulant. Certain workers and employees use this drug to increase functional activity, to stay productive despite extended hours of work. The younger generation calls it “party drug,” which keeps them awake throughout the party. To many others, cocaine is otherwise called coke, dust, charlie, white dragon, foo-foo, toot, uptown, or snow.

Cocaine is classified by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) of the United States as a Schedule II drug due to its high possibility for abuse; it can be legally prescribed by doctors, however, but only for medical purposes.

Regardless of how it will be used, though, cocaine remains to be illegal and whoever will be caught manufacturing, selling, possessing, using or distributing it, will be met with very harsh punishments. The penalties and fines defined under the United States Code (USC) of Controlled Substances Act for mere possession of cocaine include:

first time offenders: up to 12 months imprisonment and a fine of, at least, a $1,000;

second time offenders : up to 24 months imprisonment and a fine of, at least, $2,500;

third time offenders: up to 36 months imprisonment and a fine of, at least, $5,000

A higher fine and a longer jail term will be given to distributors and sellers of cocaine if any activity involving this drug will be marred by either injury or death.

One major reason why many are drawn to using this drug is the immediate sense of ecstasy it throws a user into. It also makes a user more confident, alert and talkative. This usually gets replaced by depression, anxiety and irritability, however, as the effect of the drug begins to wear off.

The firm Horst Law says that the ramifications of even the lightest cocaine-related charge can be extremely severe. A Class A misdemeanor may only result in a fine or small amount of jail time, but this is not true for felonies. The lowest felony charge, a class E, immediately raises the stakes to several years in prison and hefty fines. Both prosecutors and police, however, frequently seek to make an example out of those charged with a cocaine-related offense. Thus, to avoid being taken advantage of by overly ambitious police and their predatory tactics it may be wise to get in touch with a highly-skilled drug crime defense attorney as soon as you are able to – he/she may just be the key to your acquittal.

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI), is one of the two Social Security Administration (SSA) programs designed to provide cash benefits certain U.S. citizens (the other is the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) which pays cash benefits to totally disabled Social Security members who are below 65 years old. SSI, in particular, is designed to pay cash benefits to:

Disabled adults who have limited income and resources;

People 65 years old or older who are without disabilities, but who meet the financial limits set under the federal benefit rate (FBR); and,

Disabled children who are below 18 years old and who have limited income and resources;

The Supplemental Security Income hopes to improve the quality of life of its recipients by helping provide for their basic needs, which include food, clothing, and shelter. Unlike SSDI, which requires that disabled applicants have worked long or recently enough in SS covered jobs and have earned the required number of credits through payment of the monthly Social Security taxes taxes in order to qualify, the SSI neither requires employment nor any earned credits. This is how it was made possible to include disabled children in its list of possible beneficiaries (so long as these children have limited income and resources).

For a child to be eligible to receive SSI benefits, his/her disability should fall within SSA’s definition of disability. It is also necessary that his/her parents or guardians know what limited income and resources means.

Disability, as defined by the SSA for SSI purposes, refers to any physical or mental impairment and/or emotional or learning problem which:

Can result in severe functional limitations;

Has lasted or can be expected to last for at least a year; and,

Can result in death.

With regard to income and resources, this refers to the income and resources of the family members with whom the child lives. For 2016, the income limit set under the federal benefit rate (FBR) is $1,130 per month (this amount may change every year). Eligibility also requires that a child must not be employed in any kind of work.

When applying for SSI benefits for children, the SSA usually requires information regarding the child’s medical condition and how this condition affects his/her ability in the performance of daily activities. The child’s teachers, doctors, therapists and other professionals, who may possess knowledge about the child’s condition, will also be asked for information (with the parents’/guardian’s permission). All information gathered, including medical and school records, will be sent to the Disability Determination Services office of the state where the child resides. Doctors and nurses in said state agency will review all available information and determine whether the child is eligible to receive the cash benefits. Evaluation of records usually takes three to five months, however, if the child has emergency needs, then SSI benefits may be paid right away (even while the agency’s decision on the child’s qualification is still pending).

Examples of medical conditions that may qualify a child to receiving benefits include: total blindness, total deafness, cerebral palsy, HIV infection, muscular dystrophy, down syndrome, severe intellectual disability (for children 7 years old or older) and a birth weight that is below 2 pounds and 10 ounces.

The complexity and the long process associated with filing SSI benefits for children often results to an application getting denied or the decision getting delayed. With the help of a highly-qualified Social Security lawyers, however, such as an Indiana social security attorney, for instance, preparation of necessary records, especially medical records, and mistakes in the application process may easily be avoided; in case the application is denied, then an appeal can easily be made.

For some people, car insurance can prove to be a financial burden. While insurance premiums are falling, motorists still consider car insurance as an expensive investment. But this should not stop you from finding an affordable car insurance deal. According to the website of Franklin, WI car accident lawyers, many car insurance plans are more affordable than you might think. Let us take a look at some of the ways you can cut down on your car insurance.

Find an average car model. In general, the more expensive the car is, the higher insurance premium you can expect. If you cannot afford to pay for your insurance premium, consider an average model car.

Add a second driver on the insurance. Adding another person on your insurance policy can greatly reduce the amount of your insurance premium. Regardless of the age, adding another driver on your policy can make a huge difference in decreasing your premium rate.

Improve your credit score. Some insurance companies consider the credit score when calculating insurance premiums. Having a bad credit score can result to higher insurance premiums. There are many steps you can take to reduce your credit score and improve your chances of getting a good deal on your car insurance.

Trim down your choices. There are many insurance providers that you can choose from in the market. However, you can make finding the best deal easy by narrowing the field to about three or four insurance companies. Go for the reputable ones who have been in the business for a long time already.

Know your state limit. Most states have a fixed minimum for liability insurance coverage for bodily injury and property damage. The insurance provider will likely require you to carry a certain level of comprehensive and collision coverage.

Getting the best car insurance is not that hard. With a little bit of research, you may be able to find a deal that works best for your budget and need.

There are some situations that we tend to fail to settle our regular financial obligations. Individuals often find themselves in trouble when they fail to settle their financial obligations. Such situation can be more difficult when car insurances were not paid on time.

Insurance agencies make it easier for people to settle insurances on time by giving them various payment options. The options were made available for vehicle owners making insurance payments or for those renewing their existing policies. Though some car insurance companies give grace periods, it often come with additional fees. People who cannot pay their insurance in person may want to use their credit cards or make payments through telephone. Some insurance companies have apps and other online modes of payment options. According to the website of Ali Mokaram, when a policyholder fails to make insurance payments, he or she is risking of having his or her insurance policy cancelled. Insurance companies automatically terminate contracts of individuals who are often delinquent. Vehicle drivers whose insurance policies are cancelled automatically are considered by insurance companies as “high-risk drivers.” The state of Illinois by default requires vehicle owners to have insured and underinsured, and liability insurance coverage. It was required for vehicle owners and other people to have some coverage when involved in accidents. Car insurances were required to provide financial assistance to people who have been injured and have their properties damaged in accidents. Vehicle drivers who have their initial car insurance terminated are vulnerable to many traffic penalties when they decided to drive a vehicle.

Driving a vehicle without insurance is a serious offense in many states as it risks many people’s lives. Penalties like fines, suspension of driver’s license and registration, and SR-22 filing are often given to people driving uninsured. On the other hand, uninsured drivers may find themselves locked in jail when they got involved in accidents. Aside from avoiding additional fees and getting trouble with the law, paying car insurance premium on time ensure coverage for people on the road.

Based on data gathered for the year 2013, the Texas Department of Transportation notes that one person becomes injured in a car accident every 2 hours. Similarly, they also found that one reportable car crash or collision happens every 71 seconds. Judging by these figures, it’s easy to conclude that traffic accidents remain a serious problem in roads and highways in Texas. Fortunately, this issue can be easily curbed through the strict implementation and proper implantation of policies promoting traffic safety.

One common problem that specifically needs to be addressed is reckless driving. The Texas Transportation Code defines it as a driver’s “willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.” Violations that fall under this definition are varied. Instances of reckless driving include going over the speed limit, ignoring stop signs or red lights, failing to signal or give way to pedestrians, and operating vehicles with faulty breaks. It is considered a misdemeanor and could result in a number of penalties.

The penalties for reckless driving will depend on specific circumstances. However, drivers charged with such violations are typically face fines that cost up to $200, spending up to 30 days in county jail, or a combination of both. While the punishment for a reckless driving charge is considered a lot less severe compared to other traffic violations such as driving while intoxicated (DWI), it should be noted that it could still have a significant effect on a person’s reputation and livelihood. As such, getting charged and convicted with reckless driving is not something that one should take lightly.

Policies and regulations for common traffic issues such as reckless driving are definitely essential to help curb the growing numbers of car accidents and injuries. However, it should be pointed out that broad definitions of the law could lead to arrests and charges that might not be completely founded and could be contested. Contact a criminal defense attorney for more information.

It would be naïve to discount the fact that driving and commuting isn’t without certain risks. Car accidents happen all too frequently in the United States, and some usually end in catastrophic wrecks that leave people seriously injured. This is particularly true for rollover accidents, which can be the fault of another driver, or in some cases the fault of a vehicle’s manufacturer.

According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or NHTSA, these types of accidents have a fatality rate that is considerably higher compared to other kinds of vehicular crashes and collisions. The NHTSA estimates that rollover accidents cause about 10,000 deaths every year. Such a significant figure can make one wonder what makes rollover accidents especially dangerous?

Rollover accidents refer to crashes that involve a vehicle that flips to its side or turns over completely. Only certain types of vehicles are susceptible to such accidents. Driving a larger and more top-heavy vehicle such as SUVs, 4-wheel drives, and other similar models that have significant vertical clearance leaves one more vulnerable to greater risks. This is mostly due to issues with stability. These larger vehicles have a higher center of gravity compared to regular passenger car. In other words, these vehicles usually have larger tires that cause their center of gravity to be much farther from the ground than a typical car. Stability issues occur when SUVs and similar vehicles are driving down narrow roads that leave them little room to maneuver. In turn, sudden lurches caused by sharp turns and other abrupt changes in movement can cause the vehicle to become unstable and tip to the side or flip over. Other contributing factors to rollover accidents include hazardous road conditions such as driving down a slippery path in bad weather.

The risk of rollover accidents can also be doubled if the vehicle has some mechanical defect or error, like damaged tires or an integral issue with design. Milwaukee car accident attorneys stress that rollover victims should know that manufacturers can possibly be held accountable for accidents that happen under these circumstances.